KUF Awareness

The Knowledge and Understanding Framework (KUF) is a series of training courses that utilise psychological models to support therapeutic relationships with clients who may have a diagnosis of a personality disorder or experience challenging relational interactions associated with such a diagnosis. The training is grounded in psychological practice, with a consistent emphasis on trauma-informed approaches throughout all sessions.

Choose one of the tabs below to find out more about the different KUF training options.

One-day KUF

Non-clinical staff can include reception, administration, and facilities staff. Often the face of the organisation, the relationship between these key staff groups and clients is vital for creating a supportive environment.

This session aims to recognise the importance of empathic interactions, explore why some individuals find it difficult to relate to others, and develop skills in managing conflict and improving communication strategies.

Course content

This one-day training covers knowledge, theory and practical skills in the following areas;

  • Stigma
  • What shapes us?
  • Trauma, neglect and adversity
  • How the past influences the present
  • Understanding emotional responses
  • Relational working
  • Communication strategies

Enquire about KUF Awareness Training

Two-day OPD KUF

This KUF Training was specifically designed for staff working within the Offender Personality Disorder (OPD)  including prisons, probation services, and supportive organisations that assist individuals with a history of engagement within criminal justice systems. The training aims to help these professionals gain a comprehensive understanding of how relational difficulties develop over time and the factors that contribute to these challenges.

By exploring different therapeutic approaches, the training endeavours to equip staff with effective strategies to address and manage relational issues.

Course content

Knowledge & understanding Skills development
  • The impact of stigma
  • Defining personality difficulties
  • Development of complex emotional difficulties
  • The impact of trauma, neglect & adversities
  • Reflection
  • Formulative approaches
  • Reactions and responses
  • Emotional containment
  • Managing interpersonal dynamics

Delivery

  • In person courses are delivered on two non-consecutive days i.e. with a 1 or 2 weeks between each day.
  • Online courses are delivered either on two non-consecutive days or four half days.

Are you eligible for a funded place?

This course is funded by HMPPS and NHSE for staff who work in the Kent, Surrey and Sussex areas with people on probation, in prison or support people using those services.

You may also be eligible if you are a support organisation such as CGL or Porchlight.

Enquire about KUF Awareness Training

3-Day Multi-Agency KUF

Multi-agency refers to all organisations whose staff provide regular therapeutic support. This can include, clinicians, social workers, nursing staff, allied health professionals, support workers, and housing staff.

The three-day course aims to foster a deep therapeutic understanding of personality development and the reasons why certain traits persist, even if they appear unhelpful to the individual.

This course examines therapeutic strategies that effectively promote positive dialogue between clients and staff; explores how organisations can support staff development and wellbeing in complex environments; and helps participants recognise the good practices they are already implementing in their work environment.

Course content

Knowledge & understanding Skills development
  • The impact of stigma
  • Defining personality difficulties
  • Development of complex emotional difficulties
  • The impact of trauma, neglect & adversities
  • Understanding internal working models
  • Working in a healthy organisation
  • Formulative approaches
  • Responding to self-harm
  • Reactions and responses
  • Emotional containment
  • Managing interpersonal dynamics
  • Self-care and wellbeing strategies

Delivery

This course is currently delivered on 3 non-consecutive days either online or in person. Each day has one week in between.

Enquire about 3-day KUF Awareness Training